The US motor manufacturer UQM Technologies has received a $100,000 contract from the US Navy to develop an advanced variable-speed electric motor design with a substantially higher torque density, power density and efficiency than currently available machines.

"This project will explore the potential of an innovative motor design that combines the torque production of both permanent magnet and reluctance motor technologies," explains Jon Lutz, UQM Technologiesí vice-president of technology. "Through a novel motor geometry, we hope to maximise both the torque and speed output of the motor and expand the output speed range beyond that of our currently available industry-leading technology."

The compact, high-torque motors will be suitable for a wide range of propulsion and power generation duties.